Infected Insect Bite
Infected Insect Bite Assessment & Treatment
at Whittington Pharmacy - NHS Pharmacy First Service
Same-day NHS treatment for infected insect bites, available for patients aged 1 year and over. Walk in, book online, or request a remote consultation with our expert pharmacy team.
How to Access the Pharmacy First Infected Insect Bite Service
What is an Insect Bite?
An insect bite or sting usually causes a small red lump on the skin, which can be itchy, painful, or swollen. Most insect bites improve within a few hours or days without treatment. However, sometimes the bite can become infected, especially if it is scratched.
What are the symptoms of an Infected Insect Bite?
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Redness and swelling that gets worse over time
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Pain, tenderness, or warmth around the bite
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Pus coming from the bite site
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Feeling unwell or fever in more severe cases
Most infected insect bites are mild and can be treated quickly at your pharmacy. If left untreated, however, the infection can spread and cause more serious illness — which is why early assessment and treatment are important.
Treatments for Infected Insect Bites at Whittington Pharmacy
Through the Pharmacy First scheme, our trained pharmacists in Lichfield can assess and treat infected insect bites quickly and without the need to see a GP. After your free NHS consultation (in-person or via a remote consultation), we'll recommend the most appropriate treatment, which may include:
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Prescription-only antibiotics - creams, tablets or oral solution if clinically appropriate for an infection
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Over the counter treatments - such as soothing creams and antihistamines, these will ease itching, redness and swelling
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Expert wound care and self-care advice - to support healing
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Referral to GP or urgent care - if symptoms are more serious
Treatments are only provided if clinically suitable.
You’ll only pay the standard NHS prescription charge (£9.90) if you normally pay for prescriptions. If you’re exempt, treatment is free.
Important: Please seek urgent medical help if you develop spreading redness, severe pain, rapidly worsening swelling, difficulty breathing, dizziness, or if you feel very unwell.
3 Simple Steps to Get Free NHS Insect Bite Treatment in Lichfield
Attend your appointment in Lichfield or via remote consultation
Our pharmacist can assess your symptoms and provide same-day NHS treatment if suitable.
Step 1: Book or Walk-in
Walk in, book online, or request a secure remote consultation at Whittington Pharmacy in Lichfield.
Step 2: Assessment & Health Review
Our pharmacist reviews your bite, symptoms, and health history to decide the best treatment.
Step 3: Treatment or Referral
You may receive same-day prescription treatment, or a referral to your GP if necessary.
Pharmacy First Insect Bite FAQs
Q: Do I need a GP appointment?
No. Under Pharmacy First, our pharmacists can assess and treat infected insect bites directly.
Q: Is the consultation free?
The consultation is free. If treatment is supplied, you’ll only pay the NHS prescription charge unless you are exempt.
Q: What treatment might I get?
Depending on the severity, you may be given an antibiotic cream, oral antibiotics, or self-care advice.
Q: What if my symptoms are severe?
If there are signs of spreading infection, fever, or feeling very unwell, you may need urgent medical attention – in these cases we’ll refer you immediately.
Q: Can children use this service?
Yes. The NHS Pharmacy First service for insect bites is available to patients aged 1 year and over.
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Useful Links
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Learn more about insect bites and stings on the NHS website:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/insect-bites-and-stings/
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Check if you can get free NHS prescriptions here:
https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/prescriptions/check-if-you-can-get-free-prescriptions/
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Read official information about the Pharmacy First service on NHS England:
https://www.england.nhs.uk/primary-care/pharmacy/pharmacy-services/pharmacy-first/
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View Whittington Pharmacy’s NHS profile online:
https://www.nhs.uk/services/pharmacy/whittington-pharmacy/FJN59
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Book an Insect Bite Consultation at Whittington Pharmacy here: